Finance minister quits, PM says takes role

March 14, 2016 12:54 PM

The prime minister said Lutchmeenaraidoo had been offered the position of foreign minister in a minor cabinet reshuffle. Jugnauth did not say if he had accepted.

Prime Minister of Mauritius Anerood Jugnauth addresses attendees during the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly at U.N. Headquarters in New York, October 2, 2015. REUTERS/Mike Segar

Mauritius' Finance Minister Seetanah Lutchmeenaraidoo has asked to be relieved of his post and his position will be now be taken by the prime minister, the premier told reporters on Monday.

Prime Minister Anerood Jugnauth made the announcement at his office after days of speculation in local newspapers about the fate of the finance minister, who had not returned to work for several weeks after a visit to the United States. Some media cited health issues and others cited differences in the cabinet.